COVID-19 & Travel: 5 Tips to Help You to Stay Healthy

With COVID-19 changing many things about our day-to-day lives, those who have travel plans this spring may be left wondering what’s next. Is it safe to travel? Should you modify your plans? Along with practicing social distancing and proper handwashing, here are some additional ideas on ways you can stay healthy.

Check for any travel restrictions or travel bans

Before you jump in the car or head to the airport, make sure to verify what, if any, travel restrictions or bans are in effect for the location you’re going to. The CDC has travel health notices for both domestic and international trips, and the State Department provides regular international travel advisory updates. Check both the CDC and State Department websites for the most current information. The last thing you want is to be on your way, only to find out you can’t complete the trip!
If possible, drive instead of fly

While flying may be faster, driving allows you to avoid coming in close contact with other people. It also gives you more control over properly sanitizing the areas you’re touching. Without baggage restrictions, you’re also able to bring your own cleaning products and supplies, along with drinks and snacks. Road trip, anyone?
Wear a cloth face mask in public

The CDC is recommending even those who aren’t sick wear a face mask out in public to help slow the spread of the virus. However, they are asking the public to use cloth face masks and reserve surgical masks for healthcare workers and other medical first responders. The CDC even offers instructions on how to make your own cloth face covering! Don’t worry, if you aren’t an expert sewer, there are also step-by-step directions on how to make masks without sewing. Time for a craft day!
Sanitize the spaces you’re in and the items you frequently touch

According to the National Institutes of Health, the COVID-19 virus can live on surfaces from several hours to several days. To help you avoid coming in contact with the virus, it’s important to disinfect things you and others frequently touch. This includes your phone, wallet or purse, credit cards, and water bottles. If you’re flying, wipe down your seat, tray table, and any other areas you touch. If you’re driving, be vigilant about practicing good hygiene in high-traffic areas like roadside stops and gas stations. Whether you’re flying or driving, when using public bathrooms, avoid touching fixtures after you wash your hands. If necessary, use a paper towel to open the door when you leave.
Avoid animals you don’t know.

According to the CDC, it’s rare for animals to transmit the coronaviruses to people. However, animals can carry a variety of diseases that are contagious for humans. So, to protect your overall health, avoid interacting with animals you don’t know.

In these uncertain times, the health and safety of our guests and employees is our top priority. Stay safe and healthy, and when you're ready to vacation again, we'll be here to welcome you!

(Please note, the tips provided in this post are not proven or endorsed by a medical professional.)